Attorneys Leading the Way

Attorney Thomas J. Houser, a Senior Shareholder at Davis, Brown, Koehn, Shors & Roberts, P.C., was named one of the top 100 attorneys in the nation by Worth Magazine in its December 2005 issue. Houser was selected by Worth's editorial staff on the basis of exceptional legal expertise and outstanding interpersonal skills. Houser is the only representative from the state of Iowa.

In paring down its list of nominees, the Worth Magazine staff searched for those who could think beyond the numbers and routine of their daily work. Nominees were asked to provide examples of strategic recommendations made for their clients. Nominees were also evaluated based on their years in practice, time behind the desk and experience in court. Worth writer Emily DeNitto stated, "There were many impressive and qualified nominees, but those who made it to the final list did so because they had a keen sense of service. They understand the importance of being accessible to their clients and the delicacy of many issues they deal with."

Houser is a 1989 graduate of the University of Iowa School of Law. In December 2004, Houser was named a Fellow in the American Trust and Estates Council (ACTEC), which is comprised of lawyers who are experienced in and committed to improving the fields of estate planning, probate and trust law.

Houser practices in the areas of estate planning, business succession planning and probate administration. In particular, his practice focuses on drafting comprehensive estate plans, handling complex estate and trust administration, recommending charitable giving techniques, and advising on advanced directives and probate avoidance. Houser is a native of Belmond, Iowa, and a third generation lawyer. He practices in the firm's West Des Moines office.